UN Essentials: Global Issues and Multilateral Approaches

The United Nations, headquartered in New York City, is the largest multilateral organization in the world. Learn more about the UN system, including its operations and overall structure, the major issues it seeks to address, its partnerships, and its controversies. With a special focus on the work of the General Assembly and the Security Council, this intensive program provides a thorough grounding that is essential for those seeking to work within the UN system or for related institutions. Explore a variety of major themes and issues related to UN security, development, and human rights. Particular attention is given to peace and security operations, the sustainable development agenda, human rights, women and gender in international development, refugee and humanitarian aid in complex emergencies, and the roles of NGOs and the private sector in the UN. Briefings throughout the week expose you to a variety of insider perspectives, which may include those of diplomatic missions and member states of the United Nations, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO), civil society organizations and NGOs, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), UN Women, and the UN Department of Political Affairs. This program is recommended for those already working for diplomatic missions to the UN or for NGOs engaged in humanitarian and security work internationally, or for those seeking careers in these areas. This program features a variety of high-level speakers from within the UN community and site visits to UN agencies.